Woman Who Lost the Use of Both Legs to Polio at 10 Months Earns PhD at 61

Ulagammal from Sindhupoondurai in Tirunelveli was affected by polio when she was just 10 months old, resulting in the loss of function in both her legs. Despite this challenge, she continued her education with the encouragement and support of her family, particularly her siblings, and achieved a remarkable milestone by earning her PhD at the age of 61.

Ulagammal completed her schooling at schools in Sindhupoondurai, Junction and Meenakshipuram. She went on to pursue B.Com. at Sarah Tucker College and M.Com. at M.D.T. Hindu College, Pettai. She subsequently completed B.Ed., M.Ed. and M.Phil. degrees.

For her doctoral research, she studied the topic "Effectiveness of Awareness Training on the Well-being, Educational Skills and Self-Control of Class 9 Students" under the guidance of Professor Ramesh in the Department of Education at Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, Tirunelveli.

At the university`s convocation ceremony held yesterday, Ulagammal received her doctoral degree from Tamil Nadu Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar.

Beyond her academic achievements, Ulagammal is also actively involved in supporting students. She provides free education and psychological counselling to students from corporation schools and works as an educational counsellor. She also provides guidance to students preparing for IAS and IPS examinations in Chennai.

Despite having lost the use of both her legs, Ulagammal independently manages her daily activities and travels using a specially designed two-wheeler adapted for her needs, which she operates herself.

Her determination, self confidence and perseverance in overcoming challenges and pursuing her educational goals have earned appreciation from many.